TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. - Drinking water from nearly 50% of American faucets likely contain “forever chemicals” that may cause cancer and health problems, according to a government study, from the U.S. Geological Society research organization, released July 5.
The synthetic compounds known collectively as PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated substances) are contaminating drinking water to varying extents in large and small communities and in private wells and public systems, the USGS survey said.
Researchers described the study as the first nationwide effort to test for PFAS in tap water from private sources in addition to regulated ones.
It builds on previous scientific findings that the chemicals are showing up in consumer products as diverse as non-stick pans, food packaging and water-resistant clothing, and making its way into water supplies.
Because the USGS is a scientific research agency, it makes no policy recommendations.
But the information "can be used to evaluate risk of exposure and inform decision about whether or not you want to treat, test it or get more information from your state" about the situation locally, said lead author Kelly Smalling, a research hydrologist.
The U.S. EPA proposed the first federal drinking water limits in March on six forms of PFAS, which remain in the human body for years and don’t degrade in the environment. A final decision is expected later this year.
Studies of lab animals have found potential links between PFAS chemicals and some cancers, including kidney and testicular, plus issues such as high blood pressure and low birth weight. (The AP 07/05/23) Study says drinking water from nearly half of US faucets contains potentially harmful chemicals | AP News
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